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If You Have a Water Leak from Your Ceiling, You Can Typically Blame the Roof.

It can sometimes prove difficult to find the exact location of a water leak. If you notice puddles on your floor, for example, you may have a leaking appliance, supply valve, or even roof. On top of this, not every leak will even create puddles on the floor. Most, whether from your roof or plumbing, can remain hidden for a long time, steadily creating unseen damage until something drastic announces their presence.

This makes it important to pay attention to indicators like your water bill and water meter, along with sensory indicators like the sound of dripping or running water, or musty, mildew-like smell. If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your water bills, have a water meter that never stops turning, or hear the sound of running water when no taps are open, then you’ve detected a symptom of a plumbing water leak. Water stains on the ceiling or at the tops of walls more likely indicate a roof leak.

How to Locate a Water Leak

Finding a water leak source can prove tricky, but represents a necessary task to avoid extensive damage. The best you can do as a non-professional is check accessible contenders like your supply lines and water-related appliances. If none of these reveal the leak, it may exist under your home, beneath your yard, or in your roof.

Kitchen and Bathrooms: Check beneath your sinks for signs of moisture damage, and check the supply lines and valves for rust or moisture. Also check the flooring around your water-dependent appliances, toilets, and bathtub, and, if accessible, their supply lines.

Walls and Ceilings: Walk around your home and look for brownish spots on your ceiling or at the tops of your walls. You can also stay attentive for bubbling wallpaper and peeling paint. If you have a two-story home and find signs of a leak in these areas, check the room that sits directly above. If you have a single-story home, then your problem is a roof leak. As for who to call for a water leak in the ceiling, you will need a trusted roofing professional.

Basement and Crawlspaces: Check all the exposed plumbing for rust, moisture, rotted wood, or signs of mold or mildew. Any of these will indicate a leak in your plumbing. Also, make sure to check your water heater. Any moisture around the device indicates a leak, but may not answer where does the water leak come from. This is especially important for water heaters, as a leak in the tank, as opposed to one in the supply line or valve, will require complete replacement of the appliance.

How to Stop a Water Leak

Water Leaks Can Also Originate in the Underground Pipes Beneath Your Yard.

If you have determined that the water leak exists in your plumbing, then you can stop any further damage through the shut-off of your water. Every home has a water shut-off valve, typically located where the main water line connects to the house. Turn this valve, and you will stop the leak. Of course, your home will now have no water, so don’t delay your call to the plumber. As for an active leak in your ceiling that likely comes from a roof leak, those should stop relatively soon after the cessation of a storm. To stop them permanently will require the help of a roofing professional.

Roof Repair vs. Replace: Which One for a Leak?

The question of whether your leaking roof will require repair or replacement depends on the location and severity of the leak. Most of the time, minor roof leaks originate from the types of areas that can benefit from repair. If you find it virtually raining inside your house, however, steel yourself for replacement. Common causes of roof leaks include:

Old Age

Brick Chimneys

Flashing

Missing Shingles

Vent Boots

Holes

Gutter Clogs

Skylights

The only one of these that will absolutely require roof replacement is old age. The reason for this is that, once a roof has aged to the point where it regularly develops leaks, you will simply begin to waste money on repair. This becomes especially true for flat roofing, as it exists more naturally prone to roof leaks. Missing shingles, if in abundance, can also indicate the need for a new roof. A roof that has lost a great number of shingles clearly has some kind of inherent flaw, or incorporates inferior materials. Either way, you’ll need replacement.

In regards to the others, they can typically benefit from simple repairs. Ever wondered how roof repair for a leak works? The typical DIY solution for all of the above problems, with the exception of a leaking chimney, involves caulk and a small piece of flashing. Simply caulk around the troublesome area, affix the flashing patch, and you’re done. Naturally, this is not a good permanent solution. For that, you’ll need a professional roofer.

Water Leak FAQ

What Causes Water Leaks?

To Protect Your Home, Pay Attention to the Signs of Water Leaks.

Any number of things can cause a water leak. If the leak exists on your roof, its cause could be old age, rusted or corroded flashing, a deteriorating chimney, missing shingles, damage from a storm, holes from hail or pests, and damage from tree limbs and debris. If in your plumbing, the cause could appear as deteriorating pipes, pressure build-up behind clogs, shifts in the soil, tree roots that have penetrated an underground pipe, loose fittings or valves, or any number of other things.

Is a Leaking Roof an Emergency?

This depends on its severity. If you have a slow drip, it can likely wait until normal business hours. If your roof is leaking in multiple places, or you have a sizable stream emerging from your ceiling, call for immediate aid. Bottom line, listen to your gut. If it feels like an emergency, then it probably is.

How Much Does it Cost to Repair the Roof?

The cost to repair a leaking roof can range from a couple hundred dollars for a small patch, to many thousands for a whole new roof. Without an inspection from a qualified professional, you simply cannot know.

Is a Water Leak Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

This depends on the circumstances of the leak, the type of damage, and the nature of your insurance policy. As a general rule, water damage that occurs suddenly is covered. This can include water damage from a flood, storm, burst pipe, or overflowing sewer. You’ll notice that of these, the only two that you could construe as “leaks” are damage from storms and burst pipes. Slow leaks that cause damage over time will typically not fall under a policy’s coverage. Do not take our word for it, though. Instead, read your policy or call your insurance company.

For help with a roof water leak in Colorado Springs, CO, reach out to the experienced professionals at Reynolds Roofing Systems. We’re always glad to help, and can answer any questions you might have with a quick call to (719) 368-7654.

A large storm can cause more damage than you even realize. Not only can storms get bad, but snow can really hurt a damaged roof as well. You may not think snow can do any damage, but to a roof that needs a repair done or one that is older, it can be very heavy to the point that it can’t hold it anymore. It can also cause water damage when it begins to melt. Storms are powerful and could even cause you to have to call an emergency plumbing service if the problem spreads to the inside of your home. If your roof flashing is damaged or you need a roof repair before winter, it is important to get these services done so that you don’t have any surprises come your way once storm season hits.

Problems Caused By Storms

Mold – Water can cause mold on your roof and over time it will spread all over and can even get inside your home.

Water Damage – Water damage is one of the most common problems that happen when a roof has unresolved damage on it. Water damage can cause rotting in your roof and will end up causing you to have to have a replacement done.

Roof Replacement – A roof replacement has to happen when your roof can’t handle the damage anymore. These can be expensive so it is a good idea to have your repairs done before you have no choice.

Roof Repair – A roof repair can be anything from a small hole to a large portion of roofing that is damaged. Either way, a roofing contractor will be able to help you with that.

If you have storm damage in Colorado Springs, CO, call us at (719) 368-7654 and our team at Reynolds Roofing Systems will be there to help you.

Home Improvement and Renovation Can Leave Your House Ideally Prepared for the Future.

Homeowners benefit a great deal from proactive house repairs. If you’re like most, however, you don’t go looking for problems to fix, and simply trust in the dependability of your home’s various components. While ignorance is sometimes bliss, there’s nothing blissful about burst pipes or roof failure. As homes age, they can develop major maintenance needs. If you take care of these needs proactively, through quality home improvement, you can not only better your home, but increase its property value.

Benefits of Home Improvement

Whichever component of your home benefits from renovation, whether it’s a new roof, updated plumbing or electrical, or a kitchen remodel, the effort will pay huge dividends.

Prep for Retirement: If you plan to spend your golden years in your current residence, renovations can add safety features and offset the chance for major repairs at an unfortunate time.

Improved Comfort: If you’ve always settled for your tiny bathroom or cramped kitchen, renovations and remodels can improve both your comfort and the functionality of these spaces.

Peace of Mind and Safety: Preemptive renovations can head off major problems with important systems like your roofing and plumbing.

This last point is possibly the most important reason to consider home renovations. If you have an older home, you likely have a patchwork plumbing system comprised of different types of piping. To prevent leaks and guarantee long-term service, replace aged or rusting pipes with copper or pex piping. Additionally, as arguably the most important structural component of your home, the roof should get replaced every 20 years or so.

At Reynolds Roofing Systems, we’re your expert source for roof installations, and specialize in asphalt shingle service. Should you decide to take on home renovation in Colorado Springs, CO, we’re your trusted partner for every roofing need. To learn more or schedule service, give us a call today at (719) 368-7654.

Ownership of a home comes with many responsibilities. In addition to paying your mortgage or property taxes, you must also take care of the house’s general maintenance needs. Many of these affect the home exterior, as it weathers daily abuse from the sun and passing storms. Your roofing serves as a major exterior component that needs regular maintenance. At Reynolds Roofing Systems, we provide for the service and repair of both residential and commercial roofing.

Your home’s exterior has a major impact on both its value and curb appeal. If you allow your roof, siding, gutters, or yard to languish, you are creating both a negative impact on your home, and a steady increase in repair costs. For any questions about your roofing and its impact on home maintenance in Colorado Springs, CO, give Reynolds Roofing Systems a call today at (719) 368-7654.

The Elements of Your Home’s Exterior

Many different structural components comprise your home exterior. To perform adequate home maintenance, you must keep an eye on the various elements. Maintenance of your home’s exterior involves the care of your entire roof system, along with many other elements. You must also clean your gutters, repair your siding, replace damaged windows, and provide for any necessary garage door repair.

Roofing Components

Surface materials

Underlayment and Decking

Soffit and Fascia

Insulation

Gutters

Other Exterior Elements

Siding

Windows

Garage Door

Landscaping

We’re Your Local Source for Roofing Home Maintenance

At Reynolds Roofing Systems, we’re your local source for the roofing aspect of home maintenance services. If you take care of your home exterior with regular attention and service, you’ll both preserve your home’s value and enhance its curb appeal. To learn more about roofing repair and its impact on home maintenance in Colorado Springs, CO, give us a call today at (719) 368-7654.

Are you considering filing a roof insurance claim to help you repair damage from the latest hail storm? Insurance claims can be frustrating business, but there are ways to ensure you get the positive results you’re looking for. Follow these three smart tips while you prepare!

Smart Tip #1: Arrange a Professional Inspection

Adjusters are very capable at inspecting your roof for damage, but they can miss important details on occasion. When that happens, it pays to have a detailed inspection report from your local roofing company that outlines any damage that may be pertinent to your case. You’ll also have another estimated price on repairs to send to your insurance company. Finally, a professional roofer can help you know in advance whether you’ll require repairs or replacement for your roof

Smart Tip #2: File Sooner, Not Later

When extreme wind or nasty hail impacts your roof, you should be less concerned about the initial damage and more focused on what comes afterwards. Roofing systems that have had shingles cracked or torn off are much more vulnerable to extensive leaks into insulation and even the interior. If your home needs roofing repairs, start filing your claim as soon as possible.

Smart Tip #3: Hold Onto Your Receipts

Some policies cover additional expenses related to your repairs or out-of-home stay. Be sure to revisit your policy, then start holding on to your related receipts. For instance, if your insurance will pay for your family’s hotel stay while your roof is repaired, hold onto that receipt! Every little bit helps.

For more information about filing a roof insurance claim, feel free to talk with one of our experts at Reynolds Roofing Systems. You can reach us at(719) 368-7654.

Choosing a roof can be hard enough to deal with, but when you have to decide what kind of material you want to get, it can be an easy choice if you’ve done your research. While you were looking at roofing options, we are sure that you have come across asphalt shingles. When you are considering your options, consider this material.

What You Get

Colors – When you want a new roof, you probably have a certain color in mind that will work for you. Many types of roofing don’t have the variety that you get from asphalt shingles. There is also the factor of dimension that is great because it can bring so much life to a roof just by using variations of the same color to create dimension.

Strong – These shingles can handle even some of the toughest weather and they do it really well. It can stand up to strong winds and will meet all the requirements that you would want in a roof. These are also fire resistant unlike many other roofing materials like shake roofing. You can have better peace of mind that the roof on your home will protect you from weather and danger.

Cost – When looking for the perfect roof, cost definitely plays a large factor. This roofing material is right up your alley if you are looking for something cost effective that will last you for quite some time.

If you decide that asphalt shingles are the right roofing material for you, call Reynolds Roofing Systems at (719) 368-7654 and we will be happy to go over pricing and the installation process.

When it comes to choosing the right or the best roof for you, it is important that you know what to look for. It is important to do your research on the material that you are considering before you make the investment. There are several things to look at besides the material as well to make sure that you know what you can buy.

What To Look For

Cost – One of the most important parts and the biggest starting off point, is what is your budget? That will determine what kind of material you can get and even what company you can go to. Remember that you get what you pay for so if your price seems too low, it probably isn’t a good sign.

Background – Do your research on the company. How long has it been around? How good are the reviews? These are all important things to know about the company that will be putting on your new roof.

Look – This is something that you will probably not waiver on. When you are choosing what you want your new roof to look like, you have to love it for probably the lifetime of your home. If it is just okay, you may want to reconsider what you are picking.

Material – When choosing your material, you will want to know what the maintenance on it looks like and how long it will last. These will be big deciding factors in what you choose.

When you need a roof installed, check out Reynolds Roofing Systems and call us at (719) 368-7654 and see what we can do for you.

Metal is tough. That’s why you chose it for your roof, right? But even metal roofing needs some tender loving care from time to time. Whether it’s made of enduring aluminum, rough-’n-tough steel, or beautiful copper, your metal roof’s lifetime can be greatly extended with a few simple maintenance easy steps.

Post-winter inspection is easy. To get started, grab the following items:a pair of binoculars, a ladder, a trash bag, a sponge (or soft cloth), and some cleaning solution (such as Formula 409). Now you’re ready to begin your semi-annual metal roof maintenance!

Step #1: A Brief Walkabout

Nothing complicated here. Take those binoculars for a spin as you walk around the house, examining the roof for debris, dents, and dirt or grease smudges. Be on the lookout for any loose-looking screws and panels. Also take note of any mold or mildew growth from all the last season’s precipitation.

Step #2: Dirt and Debris

Branches and twigs might not seem all that dangerous, but debris can eventually clog your gutters and corrode your metal roof. Avoid having to re-coat your roof by washing off all debris and emptying out the gutters. For any dirt or grease spots you may have seen earlier, apply Formula 409 (or a similar solution) and gently scrub them with a sponge or cloth.

Step #3: Important Touch Ups

Winter weathering can cause minor abrasions or scratches your roof, but these can be easily repaired with the right materials. Should you spot any, you’ll also want to cautiously remove any metal shavings embedded in the roof’s coating. You can treat any of these abrasions with a brush (not a sprayer) and a touch of manufacturer approved paint. Finally, for any mold or mildew spots, apply a mixed solution of water (five gallons), household dish soap (one cup), and bleach (one cup) with a cloth or sponge.

After you’ve rinsed off your roof, congratulations! You’ve completed your semi-annual metal roof maintenance. For all major signs of roof damage to your metal roof, talk to one of our specialists at Reynolds Roofing Systems. You can call (719) 368-7654 for an inspection or any roof repairs in Colorado Springs, CO.

Your roof is one of the biggest investments that you have so it is very important that you take care of it the right way. It is recommended that you have a roof inspection done once a year. They don’t say this just to get your money, it really is important that you have one. Over the span of a year, the weather can change or a storm may happen that could potentially pull off shingles on your roof, opening your home up to water damage and other things like mold. It is important to catch the damage before it gets worse because if you wait on it, it can end up causing a roof replacement. The upfront costs of an inspection might seem like a lot, but if you consider the cost of a roof replacement, it will not seem like a lot at all.

Reasons to Have a Roof Inspection

Warranty – If you have a new roof you probably have a warranty that came with it. There are usually stipulations that come along with it though. One of them is that you may have to have a roof inspection at least once a year in order for the warranty to remain valid.

Peace Of Mind – having your roof inspected once a year will give you peace of mind that if a storm happens or there is major weather, that your roof should remain protected. It will also keep that warranty up to date and if something major does happen, it will all be covered.

If you are in need of a roof inspection, call Reynolds Roofing Systems at (719) 368-7654 and let us send one of our experienced and reliable inspectors to your home. The process is easy and will be done before you know it.

Here in Colorado, we see major weather changes happening all the time and of course, brutal winters come with heavy snow and rain. This makes it hard on your roof and can cause serious damage if you aren’t prepared. There are ways to be able to prepare your roof from major weather and keep it lasting as long as it is supposed to.

Tips To Protect Your Roof

Check your gutters – When you have things like leaves and dirt building up in your gutters it will weigh them down and pull on the side of your roof. It can also just simply break your gutter from damage and overweight. If you already have a lot of build up in your gutters and then it snows and the snow adds extra weight, it can be asking for roof damage. What you can do is grab a ladder and climb up to your gutters to clean them out. It is important that this be done by someone. If you don’t feel comfortable, you can always give us a call to do it for you.

Cut down branches – If you have heavy branches that hang over the sides of your roof, it may be time to cut them back a little bit. At the very least, until they are away from your roof a bit

more. The reason for this is because snow will build up on the branches and could snap them off of the trees onto your roof, damaging shingles or even putting a hole in your roof.

Hire an inspector – An inspector will be able to come out to your home and make sure your roof is ready for the major weather we have ahead. This will also give you an opportunity to ask questions about your roof or have the inspector give advice on what you can do to further help prevent damage from major weather.

Major weather can strike at any time, but especially now that winter in full effect, we have to be careful what we do to prepare ourselves. At Reynolds Roofing Systems, we are always here for you when you need us most. Give us a call at (719) 368-7654.